Nutrient pollution occurs when excess nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, enter water bodies from sources like agricultural runoff, wastewater, and industrial discharges. These nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and create dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive. This pollution can disrupt ecosystems, harm fish and other wildlife, and affect drinking water quality. Efforts to manage nutrient pollution often involve better agricultural practices, improved wastewater treatment, and regulations to limit nutrient runoff into rivers, lakes, and oceans, ultimately protecting both the environment and public health.